Crazy rumors surrounding Alonso

This week, Pitstop examines the many rumors surrounding Fernando Alonso's future at Ferrari.

Rumors are flying about Fernando Alonso's next move, and this season, the discussions seem more personal than ever for the two-time world champion. After a turbulent year at Ferrari, the Spaniard now seems to be torn between two major options: a possible return to McLaren, backed by a renewed partnership with Honda, or staying at Maranello and helping the Scuderia rebuild.

According to reports from Japan, Honda is prepared to go the extra mile to attract Alonso, with team boss Ron Dennis apparently having repaired the frosty relations that marred their collaboration in 2007. The Japanese press even claims that Honda will make a final attempt at Suzuka next weekend in the hope of securing the driver's services for the 2015 season. At the same time, Ferrari is reportedly in talks with the Spaniard, despite fears that his salary demands may conflict with the new management's budget. Both clubs offer historic prestige. Ferrari remains the most iconic name in the sport, recognizable even to casual fans, while McLaren-Honda evokes memories of its dominance in the 1980s. Yet in terms of performance, the outlook is similar: Ferrari is unlikely to challenge for the 2015 title and is planning a three-year rebuild, while McLaren admits its Honda engine is behind schedule and has already scaled back its ambitions, conceding that a win this year is out of reach. In short, both teams are in rebuilding mode, making the decision a truly difficult one.

Other possibilities have also been mooted. A return to Lotus (formerly Renault), where Alonso won his two championships, has been suggested with the backing of Flavio Briatore and Canadian investor Lawrence Stroll, although both Enstone and Briatore have denied that any concrete discussions have taken place. Speculation continues, however, with Ferrari claiming that discussions with Alonso are still ongoing. Should Alonso leave, the vacancy would spark further speculation. Names such as Sebastian Vettel and even Lewis Hamilton have been mentioned as potential replacements at Ferrari, while McLaren is also said to be looking for a top driver if Alonso turns down their offer. Hamilton, who joked that “there's nothing better than winning in red,” would have to consider leaving the dominant Mercedes team, a move that still seems unlikely given the German team's continued strength as 2015 approaches.